System and method for detecting and defeating a drone

ABSTRACT

The invention is directed to a system for detecting and defeating a drone. The system has a detection antenna array structured and configured to detect the drone and the drone control signal over a 360 degree field relative to the detection antenna array including detecting the directionality of the drone. The system also includes a neutralization system structured and configured in a communicating relation with the detection antenna array. The neutralization system has a transmission antenna structured to transmit an override signal aimed at the direction of the drone, an amplifier configured to boost the gain of the override signal to exceed the signal strength of the drone control signal, and a processing device configured to create and effect the transmission of the override signal. The invention is also directed to a method for detecting and defeating a drone.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

The present application is based on and a claim of priority is madeunder 35 U.S.C. Section 119(e) to a provisional patent application thatis currently in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, namely, thathaving Ser. No. 62/108,595 and a filing date of Jan. 28, 2015, and whichis incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

This invention generally relates to systems and methods of detecting anddefeating a drone. More specifically, a drone within the range of adetection antenna array is detected, its control signal is captured, anda neutralization system then emits an override signal based on thecaptured control signal.

Description of Related Art

The use of drones besides the United States military has increasedexponentially in the recent years. In fact, the Federal AviationAdministration (“FAA”) expects that by year 2020, American skies willhave up to 30,000 drones operating domestically, fueling a $90 billiondollar industry. So, the possibility of a remote controlled,robot-crowded sky in the near future is very probable. Drones, as someof the unmanned aerial vehicles are popularly known, are becomingmainstream. This is because they can easily traverse places, wheresometimes humans cannot. For instance, non-military drones have manyadvantages—crop dusting, high wire inspection, weather monitoring,firefighting, search and rescue missions, food and commodity deliverysystem, and border security, disaster responses, ground surveillancemechanism for law enforcement authorities, checkpoint operations inborder patrols, crime prevention in urban areas, including but notlimited to other law enforcement and military encounters in perilousstate of affairs. Additionally, drones are also being developed fordetecting explosives and disabling explosive activated vehicles. Forinstance, military, EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), HazMat (HazardousMaterials), SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics), law enforcement agenciesand other first responders now rely on drones to help assure a safe,successful outcome for their most challenging missions.

The increasing trend of drone usage has its pro and cons. As such, whatis highly concerning is that the operation of drones, including personaldrones is currently unregulated. This means that how, when and wheredrones can be operated is currently under no regulation by the FAA.Because of this, private entities and public law enforcement authoritiesother than the military, have the utmost freedom to use drones as theyseem fit. So for instance, personal drones controlled by individuals canbe flown within close proximities of buildings, edifices, residences,and airports with reckless disregard.

Statistics indicate that drones, when unregulated by the FAA, have asignificantly higher propensity to be involved in accidents. Primarily,this is supported by the fact that accidents like crashes into buildingsand residences, dive downs on public sidewalks and property, and mid-aircollisions have exponentially increased in recent years. Furthermore,studies reveal that 418 drone related crashes have occurred since 2001.Consequently, victims of drone crashes have been unsuccessful indetecting and defeating drones in efforts to protect themselves or theirproperties out of harm's way.

However, drone related causalities can be prevented, if an adequatedrone detection and defeat system is made available. Therefore, it isimperative that the market be provided with a system and method fordetecting and defeating a drone, primarily aimed at protecting personsand property out of harm's way in drone related encounters.

In a recent poll taken, 47 percent of Americans said they were veryconcerned about drones “killing or harming innocent civilians.” Another37 percent said they were “somewhat concerned.” 66 percent said theywere concerned “that there is not enough oversight” of drone strikes,and 50 percent said they were concerned that the strikes were “damagingthe image of the United States.” Given this pessimistic attitude ondrone related activities what is startling is that even when regulatedas in the case of military drones, there have been unprecedented dronerelated mishaps. For instance, statistics indicate that drones operatedand regulated by the military are increasingly colliding with homes,farms, runways, roads, waterways and even in mid-air with smallerairplanes flying at lower altitudes despite their sophisticatedtechnology.

Clearly, safety seems to be one of the primary concerns when it comes todrones. The fact that more and more drones are set to become a commonfixture in American civilian life within a few years is concerning froma safety perspective, regardless of whether it is military regulated orpersonally operated. Therefore, it is imperative that the market beprovided with a system and method for detecting and defeating a drone,aimed at increasing the safety of persons and property from potentiallyimminent drone related encounters.

Furthermore, the other primary concerns are protecting individualprivacy. This is because there are no regulations enacted by the FAArelated to spying and surveillance capabilities of drones. Accordingly,this has increased people's paranoia—concerning them greatly about theirprivacy. Similarly, commercially operated drones have raised severalprivacy concerns amongst private citizens. This is because most dronestoday are well-equipped with state of the art, high resolution camerasand recorders. As such, cameras and video recorders installed on droneshave the potential to invade into people's personal lives, capturingthem anytime through its lens like some unsolicited prying eyes in thesky. Consequently, drones equipped with cameras and video recorders canbe easily configured to instantaneously capture high definition picturesand videos of practically anyone or anything within its flight path. Assuch, the captured images and videos can not only be viewed instantlywith unprecedented clarity, but also uploaded on to any social mediasite within minutes. As a result, drone operators have the utmostfreedom to fly their drones over private property, view and recordanyone and anything and upload them on the Internet to be viewed byeveryone.

Furthermore, drones can be used in illegal activities like smugglingdrugs, blackmailing people with recorded images, having means to carryand drop explosives, shoot bullets from installed guns, and gatherpersonal information on anyone. Clearly, this intrusive nature of pryingeyes and potential to increase violence and illegal activities viadrones is highly concerning. Therefore, a system and method to detectand defeat drones with the aim of increasing safety, protecting privacyand decreasing potentially illegal activities is required.

Therefore, it may be imperative that the world is in need of a systemand method for detecting and defeating a drone system that thwarts andcaptures drones in a way that is non-offensive, non-combative, andnon-destructive.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is intended to present a solution to these and other needswhich remain in the relevant field of art. As such, and for purposes ofclarity in describing the structural and operative features in at leastone preferred embodiment, the present invention is directed to a systemand method for detecting and defeating a drone. The system generallyincludes a detection antenna array. Accordingly, the detection antennaarray can include a set of two or more antennas installed in variousgeometric arrays. Alternatively, however, the detection antenna arraycan include any preferred number of antennas depending on variousfactors pertaining to detecting and defeating the drone. Given this,various kinds of direction-finding array systems can be used as thedetection antenna array in the system.

In one of the preferred embodiments, the detection antenna array caninclude a set of four 90-degree sector antennas. The sector antennas arestructured and configured to create a powerful antenna array station.The versatile combination of the sector antennas allows unparalleledflexibility and convenience, while using them to detect drones and dronesignals. Furthermore, each sector antenna is structured to combine highgain with a wide 90° beam-width, which may be crucial in drone and dronecontrol signal detection. As such, the sector antennas are designedprimarily to detect a wide range of Industrial Scientific and Medical(ISM) bands and work efficiently in all-weather operations. Furthermore,each of the sector antennas further comprises an antenna gain. The gainof an antenna (antenna gain) can be generally defined as the ratio ofthe power required at the input of a lossless reference antenna to thepower supplied to the input of the sector antennas to produce, in agiven direction, the same field strength at the same distance. As aresult, it is standard practice to use an isotropic radiator as the basereference antenna when measuring the antenna gain, preferably even inthe case of sector antennas. Moreover, it is to be noted the referenceantenna (isotropic radiator) is lossless and that it would radiate itsenergy equally in all directions. This ordinarily means that any gain ofthe antenna is compared to the isotropic radiator as its referencepoint. Chiefly, this means that the gain of the isotropic radiator is 0decibels (dB). Additionally, it is also customary to use the unit dB(decibels) to measure antenna gain as it pertains to each of the sectorantennas. Therefore, exemplifying this, the antenna gain for each of thesector antennas is selected from a group of ranges measured in decibels(dB). Accordingly, in at least one of preferred embodiments, the antennagain can be selected from the range of between 10 decibels (dB) to 20decibels (dB). Additionally, in one of the other preferred embodiments,the antenna gain can also be approximately 15 decibels (dB). Therefore,as it can be seen, it is preferred that each of the sector antennas isstructured and configured to keep the antenna gain relatively highwithout affecting coverage.

Looking at this further, in one of the preferred embodiments, the rangeof the antenna gain is selected based on each of the sector antennas'ability to successfully detect and determine drone(s) and drone controlsignal(s) based on its distance from the antennas. For instance, usingeach of the sector antennas, the most dominant signal from the sourcedirection of the drone control signal is detected. Generally speaking,detecting the most dominant signal may be crucial because replacing themost dominant signal with a consequential override signal can in effectsuppress all the other lower frequency/power drone control signalsassociated with that particular drone. As such, each of the sectorantennas of the detection antenna array is structured and configured todetect the most dominant signal from the source direction of the dronecontrol signal. Furthermore, the detection of any of the drone controlsignals by each of the sector antennas is contingent on various factors.These may include, but are not limited to hopping intervals,frequencies, center frequencies, modulation types, frequency spreadingfactors and other non-standardized drone control signal protocols.Similarly, the detection of the drone control signal by each of thesector antennas can also depend on other factors, namely noiseinterferences, environmental factors, weather conditions, and otherotherwise known elements. Additionally, in a general sense, it may beimportant to note that in the detection of the drone and drone controlsignal, the directional focus, the pattern and the number of sectorantennas may influence results.

Looking further in one of the other preferred embodiments, it will beappreciated by those skilled in the art that the detection antenna arrayis structured and configured to detect a drone and a drone controlsignal over a 360-degree radius field relative to itself. In otherwords, the detection antenna array has omnidirectional detectioncapabilities, which generally compliments the multi-directional droneand drone control signal detection environment it may be used in.Accordingly, in at least one of the preferred embodiments, the detectionantenna array can function as an omnidirectional antenna. Theomnidirectional antenna has a non-directional pattern (circular pattern)in a given plane with a directional pattern in any orthogonal plane. Asa result, omnidirectional antennas like dipoles and arrays are commonlyknown to radiate their power out in all directions in a plane, away fromthe vertical axis of the antenna. Given this, in one of the preferredembodiments, the detection antenna array is configured to detect dronecontrol signal(s) from all directions (360 degrees) relative to itself.

Alternatively, in one of the other preferred embodiments the detectionantenna array is structured and configured as a directional antenna,i.e., have more antenna gain in one direction compared to the other. Assuch, directional antennas have a higher antenna gain in one desireddirection and the capacity to receive drone control signals generallyfrom that direction. Moreover, directional antennas can be used forcoverage as well as point-to-point links. For example, they can be patchantennas, dishes, horns or a whole host of other varieties. Directionalantennas generally accomplish the same goal: radiating their energy outin a particular direction. Given this, in one of the preferredembodiments, the detection antenna array is configured to detect droneand drone control signal primarily from one selected direction only.Moreover, the detection antenna array is also structured to be adjustedbased on its height, number of arrays, positioning, weather conditions,and overall topology of the operating environment. Essentially, it ispreferred that the detection antenna array has the dimensions tosufficiently maximize the drone and drone signal detection capabilities.

Looking further in one of the other preferred embodiments, the detectionantenna array is structured and configured to detect the directionalityof the drone. More specifically, the detection antenna array detects thedrone control signal transmitted by its source and based on its signalcharacteristics and other variables, precisely determine thedirectionality and position of the drone relative to the detectionantenna array. For instance, when the detection antenna array detectsthe drone control signal, it transmits the signal back, enabling thesystem to receive and process the signal, thereby identifying thebearing of the drone, the drone control signal and its source relativeto the position of the detection antenna array with greater accuracy andreliability. More specifically, in one of the preferred embodiments, thedetection antenna array is configured to detect the drone and its dronecontrol signal, within the vicinity of its detection radius. Thedimensions of the detection radius can be limited or expansive,depending on the preference of the search. As a result, the dimensionsof the detection radius can vary relative to the preference ofdetection, location of the drone, and the distance of the drone and thedrone signal from the antenna.

Next, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that thedetection antenna array can be configured to detect a wide range ofbandwidths and frequency signals. Some of the frequency bands mayinclude, but are not limited to, Industrial, Scientific and Medical(ISM) bands. As such, the detection antenna array can be configured todetect ISM bands anywhere from ultra-low 900 Megahertz (MHz) to the newextremely high 60 GHz. Additionally, in at least one preferredembodiment, the detection antenna array is configured to preciselydetect the 2.4 GHz ISM band. As such, the 2.4 GHz ISM band is the knowndominant band for remote control signals and having the configuration todetect in this dominant frequency serves the detection antenna array'spurpose of detecting the strongest drone control signals. Alternatively,however, the detection antenna array can also be configured to detectother dominant bands in other frequency ranges, depending on the typeand distance from the drones. Therefore, the selection of a specificfrequency standard can depend on many factors including intended use,distance and direction of the drone, and type of drone control signal.

Looking further in one of the other preferred embodiments, the systemalso includes a neutralization system. The neutralization system isstructured and configured in a communicating relation with saiddetection antenna array. This means that the neutralization system isconfigured to communicate with the detection antenna array, so as tosufficiently receive any and all drone and drone control signal relatedinformation. Accordingly, when drone control signal data is detected andreceived by the detection antenna array, the data is forwarded to theprocessing device to be further processed and analyzed. This is crucialbecause the drone control signal has to be precisely analyzed,ascertaining its signal protocols and frequencies, so that an identicalor stronger override signal can be created and transmitted aimed in thedirection of the drone. Accordingly, in one of the preferredembodiments, the neutralization system comprises a processing device, anamplifier, and a transmission antenna.

More specifically, in one of the preferred embodiments, the processingdevice is configured to create and effect the transmission of theoverride signal, based on the detection of the drone control signal. Sothen, the processing device comprises at least one computer, includingat least one processor and memory, structured and configured to performthe operations described within this application. Additionally, theprocessing device further comprises executable and/or interpretablecomputer code, or software, that allows for the execution of outputcontrols based on select input signals. The executable and/orinterpretable programming languages extend to all those known to oneskilled in the art, including but not limited to C, C++, C#, Ruby, Java,Dart, Rust, Swift, PHP, Perl, HTML, XHTML, and other equivalentlanguages and past, present and future variations. The processing devicemay house a library of known radio frequency spectrums, headers, andcontrol signals within an attached or embedded storage, such thatvarious control signals may be automatically selected depending on adetected radio frequency signal. The processing device may of coursealso allow for direct user input.

Furthermore, in at least one of the preferred embodiments, it will beappreciated by those skilled in the art that the processing device maybe implemented as an application server in communication with a network,such as to allow for remote access by a user via a mobile or remotedevice. So then, in one of the preferred embodiments, the network maycomprise the Internet, but may also comprise any other LAN, WAN,wireless or partially wired networks. Accordingly, additionalcommunication hardware may be installed on the processing device toallow for communication over a network. Additional software components,such as server software for application(s), website(s), various networkservice(s), and respective databases may also be installed on theprocessing device. As such, the application server is configured withexecutable and/or interpretable computer code that allows it to performthe methods and processes described within this application, includingthe processing, analysis, and/or visualization of signal data for userinterpretation. The application server may implement the methodology ofusing software methods described above, in conjunction with any numberof solution stacks that allow the processing, analysis, and/orvisualization of signal data to be executed remotely. These solutionstacks may include, without limitation, ZEND Server, APACHE Server,NODE.JS, ASP, PHP, Ruby, XAMPP, LAMP, WAMP, MAMP, WISA, and others knownto those skilled in the art. In such a preferred embodiment, theapplication server may also comprise or be communicably connected to adatabase, the database may comprise a SQL database or a text database,and may house any recorded signal data and the library of known dronefrequency bands and control signals as described above.

Looking further in yet another one of the preferred embodiments, theprocessing device further comprises a software defined radio (SDR)configured to replicate the drone control signal. As such, SDR cancomprise a wide variety of radio communication systems having componentsimplemented by means of software, preferably on a computer like deviceor any other known embedded system. As far as programming is concerned,SDR can be reprogrammed quickly to transmit and receive signals on anyfrequency within a wide range of frequencies, using many transmissionformats on various set of protocols. SDR also comprises reconfigurationby allowing control over modulation techniques, security functions (suchas frequency hopping) and waveform requirements over a broad frequencyrange provided by a given software. As such, SDR is a radiocommunication technology that is based on software defined wirelesscommunication protocols instead of hardwired implementations. Moreparticularly, SDR includes software protocols that can wirelesslytransmit and receive signals pertaining to drones and drone controlsignals in a given radio frequency part of the electromagnetic spectrumfacilitating an accurate transfer of drone control signal relatedinformation.

In lieu of this, SDR comprises a collection of hardware and softwaretechnologies, where some or all of the SDR operating functions can beimplemented through modifiable software or firmware operating onprogrammable processing technologies. Accordingly, in one of thepreferred embodiments, SDR comprises a software defined radio andcomplimentary hardware components for executing all the functions of theSDR. The hardware components comprise embedded systems that are capableof performing the equivalent functions of hardware radio component,including but not limited to mixers, filters, amplifiers,modulators/demodulators, detects, converts, and other appropriatecomponents. As such, SDR includes the use of an embedded general purposeor specialized computer such as, but not limited to, a processingdevice, or microcontroller, receiver(s), transmitter(s), and antenna(s).SDR can further comprise commercially available SDRs, SDR receivers,prebuilt SDRs, or SDR receiver kits mounted onto the UAV 200, such asSDRstick, ADAT, Apache Labs, SunSDR, Myriad-RF, FLEX, USRP, SoftRock,and others known to those skilled in the art. As far as frequencies areconcerned, the SDR can cover all frequencies from 9 kHz (kilohertz) to300 GHz. As a result, SDR can receive, transmit, modulate and demodulateall modulation modes and bandwidths of frequencies, while also beingable to configure itself automatically or manually.

Looking further in one of the other preferred embodiments, the amplifierof the neutralization system is structured to boost the gain of theoverride signal to exceed the signal strength of the drone controlsignal. As such, the boost of the override signal due to the amplifiercan be computed as the ratio of the power of the outputted overridesignal compared to the inputted drone control signal. In other words,the amplifier generally has a gain value in its output override signalthat is at least equal to or stronger in signal strength (in decibels)compared to the inputted drone control signal. So then, the amplifier isconfigured to receive the inputted drone control signal in a readableformat. This is because the processing device ensures that the overridesignal is processed in a readable format for the amplifier to be able toboost its gain. As such before the signal is transmitted, the amplifieradds energy to it, outputting the override signal that is generallygreater than or equal in signal strength than the inputted drone controlsignal. So then, in at least one preferred embodiment, the overridesignal can include an exact replication of the drone control signal.More specifically, the override signal is configured to precisely mimicthe drone control signal in terms of its frequencies, hopping intervals,center frequencies, modulation types and other frequency protocols.Accordingly, superseding the drone control signal with the overridesignal allows the system to render the control of the drone from itsoriginal operator at least partially and/or totally inoperative.Moreover, the override signal is not limited. It includes data that canalso enable to engage the drone with new controlling commands. So then,the override signal is sufficient to not only disconnect the drone fromits original operator, but to also cause the drone to accept new controlcommands. More specifically, the override signal is configured to allowthe drone to accept new control commands that will disconnect the dronecommunicably from its original operator.

Looking into one of the preferred embodiments even further, the overridesignal can comprise a header of the drone control signal. As such, theheader of the drone control signal can be a range of supplemental datathat is placed at the beginning of the block data in the override signalbeing transmitted. So then, typically the header of the drone signal cancomprise a sync word that would allow the drone to adapt to the analogamplitude, speed variations and signal synchronization. Alternatively,the header data can also be transparent and may not contain any details.So then, in one of the preferred embodiments, the header of the dronecontrol signal is transmitted via the override signal as an initial setof bits to preliminary describe as to what the drone can expect toreceive throughout the override signal data stream. As such, this mayinclude but is not limited to the length, size, characteristics andamount of data, and other protocol functionality associated with thecontrol of the drone. Furthermore, the header of the drone controlsignal may also contain information related to the version of the signalprotocols used, the type of signal transmission and its function, theduration of the synchronization, sequence information to reduce errorsin transmissions, and the specific order in which the signaltransmission will occur. Even further, the header of the drone controlsignal incorporated in the override signal is crucial in situationswhere multiple drones exist. This is because header data in eachoverride signal can target precise drones, thereby avoiding anyconfusion as to what drone the override signal is intended for.Furthermore, because transmission conditions themselves can change,coordination becomes a large issue in detecting drone control signals.So, even though management and control packets within the overridesignals are dedicated to these coordination functions, the headers ofthe drone control signal contain a great deal more information aboutnetwork conditions and topology of the environment.

Next, in one of the other preferred embodiments, the override signalcomprises an injected code. Ordinarily, the injected code in theoverride signal aims to partially or totally gain control of the drone.As such, the injected code can be created by the SDR. Given this, theinjection of the replicated or spurious code, depending on the extent,format, and content of the code, can compromise proper operatingfunctions of the drone from its original operator, at times evenallowing for a complete takeover of its operative functions.Consequently, the injected code is configured to have precise details oncontrolling the drone as well as engaging it with new commands,sufficient to validate a safe capture of the drone without any potentialphysical damage.

Even further, in one of the other preferred embodiments, the overridesignal comprises random noise. Random noise can function to be an erroror undesired random disturbance in the drone control signal pertainingto the drone's communication channel with the original operator.Ordinarily, it can be used as a signal jamming mechanism, aimed tointentionally disrupt communication channels between drones from itscontrolling sources. As such, other common types of signal jamminginclude random pulse, stepped tones, warbler, random keyed modulated CW,tone, rotary, pulse, spark, recorded sounds, gulls, and sweep-through.More specifically, random noise is an error or undesired randomdisturbance in the drone control signal, intentionally interfering thecommunication channel of the drone from the source. To demonstrate, thetransmission antenna transmits the override signal, including the randomnoise incorporated within it. As such, the low power signal createssignal noise and tricks the drone source into thinking that the drone isno longer available. Furthermore, in other preferred embodiments, thelow-signal transmitted random noise in the override signal causes randomdisturbances, jamming and interfering with the communication channelbetween the drone and the drone's original source. As a result, thesource operator of the drone experiences malfunctioning in thecontrolling functions of the drone. Given this, the override signal cancomprise the header, the injected control code and the random noiseindividually or collectively, sufficient to interfere, cease, and takecontrol of the communication channel between the drone and its operator.

Looking further into one of the preferred embodiments, the amplifieralso considerably increases the optimal range of the override signal byreducing any intermodulation of other signals and/or signal relateddata. For instance, the amplifier allows the override signal to maintaina purest path from the transmission antenna towards the drone, so as toretain the required signal strength necessary to override the dronecontrol signal. As such, the amplifier maintains a strong overridesignal throughout the signal transmission process in the direction ofthe drone. For instance, the amplifier increases transmission lengths,permitting the override signal to reach drones at far greater ranges,without risking any decrease in drone control capabilities. Thus, theamplifier can improve the overall drone control distance and contributetowards robust signal stability. Similarly, the amplifier is structuredand configured to increase the sensitivity of the transmission antennawhen the override signal is transmitted towards the identified drone.This increased sensitivity of the transmission antenna makes up for anyimbalance that may occur in the delivery of the override signal to thedrone. Additionally, the amplifier is configured to amplify oscillationswithin a particular frequency band, while reducing oscillations at otherfrequencies outside the band.

Moving forward in reference to least one of the other preferredembodiments, the transmission antenna is structured to transmit theoverride signal aimed at the direction of the drone. As such, thetransmission antenna can comprise a solid metal tube, a flexible wirewith an end cap or a telescoping antenna, with sections nesting insideeach other when collapsed. So then, in order to effectively transmit theoverride signal in the direction of the drone, the transmission antennais configured to convert electric energy into transmittable signalfrequencies in the form of override signals, preferably identical andstronger than the inputted drone control signals. More particularly, thetransmission antenna can function in one direction or beomnidirectional, depending on the preference, distance and location ofthe drone. This means that the transmission antenna can transmitoverride signal in one preferred directions or in all directions. Assuch, the override signal is configured to be identical in signalcharacteristics to the drone control signal, and thus, override it so asto render the drone's control from its original source/operatorinoperative. Additionally, if the inputted drone control signal is in ahigher frequency, the transmission antenna is structured and configuredto convert the higher rate of electrical energy supplied to it in ahigher frequency, sufficient for the override signal to supersede thedrone control signal in the higher frequency. As such, the frequenciestransmitted by the transmission antenna can be adjusted and configuredrelative to the frequencies detected from the drone and the dronecontrol signal regardless of the frequency level or other signalprotocols.

Looking further in one of the preferred embodiments, the system includesan alternate antenna system. The alternate antenna system is configuredto transmit at least one pulse of 2.4 Ghz energy from a magnetronsource. As such, the magnetron source can be any high power microwaveoscillator, in which the potential energy of at least one electron cloudnear the cathode is converted into radio frequency energy. As such, themagnetron source or any other similar source capable of creating pulseof such energy supplies the alternate antenna with the desired energy tobe consequently transmitted. For instance, in one of the preferredembodiments, the energy from the magnetron is introduced when theinitial lower frequency based override signal transmitted by thetransmission antenna does not affect the drone control signal. In otherwords, when the drone is operating at a higher frequency than thefrequency of the override signal, the initially transmitted overridesignal may not affect the drone's existing controls. Therefore, asubsequent higher frequency signal created by the magnetron source canbe transmitted to override such higher frequency drone control signals.Likewise, the energy pulse from the magnetron source via the alternateantenna is also introduced if the drone is controlled by multiplesignals (at lower and higher frequencies). Accordingly, in such cases,transmitting the higher frequency signal created by the magnetron sourcecan offset the remaining higher frequency drone control signal(s),sufficient to render any existing controls of the drone partially ortotally inoperative from its source. Wherefore, the alternate antennasystem can effectively transmit high frequency energy generated from themagnetron source. As a result, when the magnetron source creates theenergy of at least 2.4 Ghz, it is aimed and transmitted in the directionof the drone via the alternate antenna system.

Furthermore, in at least one of the preferred embodiments, the alternateantenna system comprises a horn antenna. The horn antenna is configuredto amplify and/or transmit at least one pulse of the 2.4 GHz generatedby the magnetron source aimed precisely in the direction of the detecteddrone. As an example, the horn antenna can be structured as a flaringmetal waveguide shaped like a horn to direct the desired high levelfrequency in the form a beam in the direction of the drone. As such, thehorn antenna can be configured to transmit at various frequencies, butpreferably at least above 300 (MHz). The horn antenna is structured,dimensioned and configured to have moderate directivity, low standingwave ratio, broad bandwidth, simple construction and adjustablestructure. Moreover, the horn antenna is configured to minimize anyinterruptions such as unwanted signals not in the favored direction ofthe drone and drone control signal, by effectively suppressing them. Assuch, the horn antenna has no resonant elements and is configured tooperate at a wide range of bandwidths.

Looking further, into one of the preferred embodiments of a methodassociated with detecting and defeating a drone, the method comprisescontinuously scanning for remote control signals on a detection antennaarray in order to detect the drone and the drone control signal.Accordingly, to continuously scan, the detection antenna array isconfigured to detect ISM bands or any other related bands ranging fromultra-low 900 MHz (Megahertz) to an extremely high 60 GHz, including,but not limited to the preferable 2.4 GHz ISM band, which is widelyrecognized as the dominant band for remote controls operating drones.Given this, the selection of ISM bands standard can depend on thedirection, environment, intended use, and distance of the drone and/ordrone control signal. Additionally, a display screen indicating thedetection and direction of the drone and the drone signal can also beincluded as part of the preferred embodiment.

Looking further, the source direction of the drone signal on thedetection antenna array is determined. The directional determination ofthe drone signal can occur by directing the focus towards one particulardirection in which the drone is specifically detected, or alternatively,omnidirectional, in order to search drones in all directions existingwithin the given search range. As such, it will be appreciated by thoseskilled in the art that the comprehensive signal detecting capabilitiesof the detection antenna array is configured for directional detectionand omnidirectional detection of drone control signal(s). Moreover, thedirectional antenna array is configured to measure and determine thefrequency hopping intervals, the center frequencies, the modulationtypes, the frequency spreading factors, and compare any of the detecteddrone control signal(s) to other standard and non-standard drone controlsignal protocols stored on hand on a computer and/or a micro-controllersystem. Accordingly, the directional antenna array can be configured todetect and determine the characteristics of the detected drone controlsignal by taking into account factors including, but not limited todirection, distance, intensity quality, and external noiseinterferences. This precise determination by the directional antennaarray enables the neutralization system to create the desired overridesignal. For instance, once a drone control signal is detected anddetermined by the detection antenna array, the override signal iscreated on the neutralization system based on the detected drone controlsignal. Consequently, the neutralization system ensures that theoverride signal created, is identical in its protocol and specificationsto the strongest drone control signal detected pertaining to any givendrone.

Next looking further, the override signal is transmitted from thetransmission antenna connected to the neutralization system, aimedtowards the source direction of the drone control signal. The overridesignal is transmitted via the transmission antenna. Again, the overridesignal is replicated to match the detected drone signal, oralternatively, the override signal is protocol synthesized drone controlsignal aimed at the direction of the drone. So then, the override signalcan also be configured to guide the detected drone in case of signalloss or motor shut down. More particularly, the override signal allowsfor the drone to be safely controlled in the event that the overridesignal disrupts the drone's existing drone control signal to make itoperationally ineffective. As such, in one of the preferred embodiments,there is no lag time from when the drone control signal loses itscontrol of the drone functions from its original operator, and theoverride signal simultaneously takes control. So then, the overridesignal transmitted by the transmission antenna can be configured tosuppress any existing drone control signals making it cumbersome for itsoriginal operator to maintain control of the drone. Consequently, theidentical characteristics of the override signal offsets the dronecontrol signal by replacing it, thus, relinquishing it from itsoperative capabilities, by disconnecting it from its original operator.

Referring again to the methods of detecting and defeating a drone, thesystem periodically terminates the override signal transmission from thetransmission antenna. The periodic termination of the drone overridesignal may occur at various preferred intervals. As such, this dependson several factors related to the drone and drone control signaldetection. For instance, situations may occur where the initial overridesignal transmitted by the transmission antenna fails to completelyoverride and/or offset the drone control signal. Consequently then, theperiodic termination of the override signal transmission helps thesystem determine, if the override signal is affecting the drone controlsignal. Additionally, it also helps to understand whether there are anyother remaining remote drone control signals still controlling thedrone, which have not been overridden by the initially transmittedoverride signal.

Looking further, additional remote control signals are scanned in orderto detect any supplemental drone control signal(s). This is becauseother supplemental drone control signals may exist besides theoriginally detected drone control signal that may be contributingsecondarily or as a backup in retaining the control of the detecteddrone. For instance, supplemental drone control signal(s) can serve as abackup to the primary drone control signal in situations where theoriginal drone control signal may have lost communication with itsoperator when the initial override signal was transmitted. Accordingly,once a supplemental drone control signal is detected, a supplementaloverride signal is created on the neutralization system based on thedetected supplemental drone control signal. As such, the supplementaloverride signal is configured to be identical or stronger in signalstrength than the supplemental drone control signal. Once transmitted,the supplemental override signal then overrides the supplemental dronecontrol signal related to the drone, defeating its control therein.Therefore, in one of the preferred embodiments, the override signal andthe supplemental override signal, collectively are transmitted from thetransmission antenna towards the direction of the drone. This ensuresthat the original drone control signal and the supplemental dronecontrol signal are both overcome. Alternatively, in other preferredembodiments, the supplemental override signal can be transmittedseparately and in intervals towards the direction of the drone for thesame purpose as well.

As indicated, the method for detecting and defeating the drone in atleast one of the preferred embodiments comprises: continuously scanningfor remote control signals on the detection antenna array in order todetect the drone control signal, determining the source direction of thedrone control signal on the detection antenna array, creating anoverride signal on the neutralization system based on the detected dronecontrol signal and transmitting the override signal from thetransmission antenna connected to the neutralization system towards thesource direction of the drone control signal. Accordingly, after theoverride signal from the transmission antenna is transmitted, the systemscans for a video link associated with the detected drone. As such, thevideo link formats may include, but is not limited to .flv, .ogv, .drc,.mng, .avi, .wmv, .yuv, .rm, .rmvb, .asf, .webm, .mp4, .m4p, .mpg,.mpeg, .nsv, .mov, .swf and .3pg, as well as any other media orstreaming formats. Moreover, the video link may also be scanned atvarious frequencies. Accordingly, in the preferred embodiment, the videolinks associated with the detected drone, regardless of the file size,resolution and compatibility can be scanned at any given frequency. Sothen, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that in thepreferred embodiment, the video link associated with the detected dronecan be scanned on the 5.8 GHz ISM band. Additionally, the video linkassociated with the detected drone can also be scanned on a 915 MHz ISMband. The ISM bands allow for the video link of any aerial footagecaptured in real time by the detected drone to be sent back to theneutralization system to be recorded for display. Wherefore, therecorded footage captured by the drone, can be viewed on any electronicdisplay equipment. Given this, the recorded footage as viewed, can beused for real time feedback of drone behavior and other telemetry datawhich will be explained in greater detail below.

Looking further, in at least one embodiment, the video formats caninclude any type of synchronization information, subtitles, and metadataassociated with the video link. So then, in this preferred embodiment,once the video link is scanned and detected, the video feed associatedwith the video link is recorded by the system. Upon recording the video,an alternate video feed signal to the drone is periodically injected, inorder to interfere with the piloting of the drone. More specifically,real time feedback of drone behavior and other related telemetry data,including but not limited to GPS positions, battery voltage, images ofdrone operation and precise location of its operator is recorded. Henceonce recorded, the image data is analyzed not only to determine how thecontrol of the drone will be precisely negotiated, but also to interferewith the control of the drone. As such, in one of the preferredembodiments, an alternate video feed signal to the drone is periodicallyinjected in order to confuse, interfere and incapacitate the piloting ofthe drone from its original operator. More particularly, the alternatevideo feed signal periodically injected is configured to repeat thevideo footage already recorded by the drone. As an example, this is donein a repeated, looped time frame format, so as to trick its operator inbelieving that he/she still has control of the drone and temporarilyavoid any suspicion of hostile takeover of controls of the drone.

Furthermore, in at least one alternative preferred embodiment, when thedetection antenna array detects the drone control signal, along with itsprecise or approximate positioning, the positioning of the drone isrelayed to an external directionally controllable object launcher. Inother words, when the drone is detected within a reasonable distance, adirectionally controllable object launcher equipped with tennis balls orother similar objects receives the positioning of the drone. As such,the object launcher may comprise a paint gun, a slime gun, a net or awater cannon. Furthermore, any information in regards to the positioningof the drone can be communicated to the object launcher manually orautomatically. As such, the directionally controllable launcher isconfigured to launch tennis balls or similar objects aimed towards thedrone, so as to cause direct impact, physically knocking it down fromthe sky without causing any substantial risk of injury to others in itspath or otherwise. For instance, drones are used to deliver illegaldrugs within prisons, notwithstanding the rigid confines and thepresence of law enforcement. As such, prisons have a solution toeradicate the delivery of illegal substances via drone delivery. This isbecause prisons or other places alike having directionally controlledobject launchers can easily be configured to receive information aboutdrone location, once obtained from the system. Accordingly and merely asan example, once the information on the positioning of the drone isrelayed to the object launcher by the system, the directionallycontrollable object launcher will rapidly shoot tennis balls or othersimilar objects targeting the drone. As such, the tennis balls orsimilar objects physically impact the drone, knocking it down withoutcausing substantial injury to any prison inmates or law enforcementofficers and simultaneously ceasing any illegal activity therein.

In at least one other preferred embodiment, an infrared camera can bemounted on a drone to detect other drones. This infrared camera mounteddrone is configured to provide real time visual feed of the detecteddrone. As such, the visual of the detected drone via the mountedinfrared camera would supplement the system to ascertain the make andmodel of the detected drone, thus enabling the system to speed up theprocess of detection by transmitting the overriding signal without anyfurther ado. As such, in at least one of the preferred embodiments, thesystem is configured to detect the make and model of the detected drone.

Looking even further, the method for detecting and defeating the droneaccording to at least one preferred embodiment comprises: continuouslyscanning for remote control signals on the detection antenna array inorder to detect the drone control signal, determining the sourcedirection of the drone control signal on detection antenna array,creating the override signal on the neutralization system based on thedetected drone control signal and transmitting the override signal fromthe transmission antenna connected to the neutralization system towardsthe source direction of the drone control signal. These methods havebeen explained in great detail above. Given this, after transmitting theoverride signal from the transmission antenna towards the sourcedirection, the detection antenna array detects the effect of theoverride signal transmitted from the transmission antenna on the drone.More specifically, the detection antenna array detects whether theoverride signal transmitted in the direction of the drone haseffectively overridden the drone control signal, so as to render thedrone uncontrollable from its source. As such, one of the preferredembodiments includes the override signal being operative on the drone,so as to override the existing drone control signal. So then, furthermeasures pertaining to control and capture of the drone may proceed. Noother alternate signals of higher frequency need to be transmitted.However, if the effect of the override signal is inoperative on thedrone, at least one of the preferred embodiments includes proceedingwith subsequent measures pertaining to transmitting stronger frequencybased signals. More particularly, once the override signal isineffective in offsetting the drone control signal in regards to partialor total control of the drone, an energy pulse of higher frequency isconsequently transmitted. This will be described in greater detailbelow.

In at least one preferred embodiment, if no discernible effect on thedrone can be detected, at least one pulse of 2.4 Gigahertz GHz energyfrom a magnetron source through an alternate antenna system istransmitted. The magnetron source offers high energy conversionefficiency and can be configured to reduce the risk of interference byshifting the magnetron source's resonant frequency in a more desirablefrequency spectrum conducive to conditions for drone control.Furthermore, it is noted that some of the remote control signals operateat a frequency of 2.4 GHz, the same frequency standard at which mostWi-Fi standards 802.11g, 802.11n, IEEE 802.15.4 based wireless datanetworks, and Bluetooth devices operate on nowadays. Given this, the 2.4GHz pulse of energy is transmitted via the alternate antenna systemaimed in the direction of the drone. Accordingly, the alternate antennasystem comprises a horn antenna. The horn antenna is configured toreceive at least one pulse of 2.4 GHz energy from the magnetron source.As such, given its far field pattern, the horn antenna is alsoconfigured to transmit this energy in a beamed format aimed towards thedrone. It can provide a higher power handling and lower insertion losstransition for the 2.4 GHz energy coupled out of the magnetron source.Given all of this, in one of the preferred embodiments, if no apparenteffect is detected when the initial override signal is transmitted, thehorn antenna of the alternate antenna system consequently transmits atleast one pulse of 2.4 GHz energy aimed towards and/or approximatelynear the drone, sufficient to gain control of the drone. Alternatively,in one of the other preferred embodiments, at least one pulse of 2.4Gigahertz GHz energy from a magnetron source can also be transmitted viathe horn antenna of the alternate antenna system in situations wherealternate, manipulated video feed signals are required to be injectedperiodically in the 2.4 GHz frequency range towards the drone so as toconfuse its operator and make operation of the drone cumbersome.

Furthermore, the method for detecting and defeating the drone in one ofthe preferred embodiments comprises: continuously scanning for remotecontrol signals on the detection antenna array in order to detect thedrone control signal and determining the source direction of the dronecontrol signal on the detection antenna array. These are aforementionedin greater detail above. Thereupon, the signal characteristics andprotocols of the drone control signal are particularly determined. Morespecifically, once the drone control signal is detected by the detectionantenna array, the processing device receives the data from thedetection antenna array. It then determines the characteristics andother protocols of the drone control signal, including but not limitedto factors such as frequency levels, modulation types, and frequencyspreading factors. Consequently, after making a precise determination,the drone control signal characteristics and other protocols arecompared against the various data stored in the processing device. Inother words, the signal characteristics of the drone control signal arecompared with the data stored in the library on the processing device.As a result, an identical match based on the comparison and analysiswith the drone control signal is determined. Generally, the librarystored on the processing device is comprehensive. As a result, thelibrary comprises a wide spectrum of frequencies data including, but notlimited to ultra-low 900 MHz to the new extremely high 60 Gigahertz GHz.The library also contains other relevant information on various standardand non-standard center frequencies, bandwidths, modulations and otherremote control signal protocols. In essence, the library stored on theprocessing device comprises all the relevant information, sufficient todetermine, create and transmit a counterpart override signal based onthe detected drone control signal. As such, the override signal can alsobe closely associated or stronger in signal strength, if not identicalto the signal characteristics of the detected drone control signal. Inother words, the override signal is created based on its precisespecifications in signal characteristics and protocols to the detecteddrone control signal. As such, the signal characteristics may comprisedetermining the frequency hopping interval of the drone control signal,determining the center frequency of the drone control signal,determining the modulation type of the drone control signal anddetermining the frequency spread of the drone control signal.

More specifically, looking at the signal characteristics in one of thepreferred embodiments, frequency hopping is performed by changingfrequencies while communicating with the drone. Ordinarily, frequencyhopping can be slow, which means that several data (bits) aretransmitted during each hop. However, alternatively it can be changed tobe fast as well. As such, several frequency hopping patterns can betransmitted in the same frequency range without interfering with oneanother. Moreover, signal energy can be narrow or spread over a widerfrequency range depending on the nature of the drone control signal.Next, the center frequency of the drone control signal is determined inorder to resonate at a particular frequency of the drone control signal.As such, the center frequency for each drone control signal has acertain bandwidth, or range of frequencies that it will allow towardsthe center, between the upper and lower cutoff frequencies. Accordingly,this may ensure that the override signal created has a high probabilityto override the drone control signal. Thus, determining the centerfrequency allows a rejection of any signal outside the bandwidth of thedrone control signal frequency. Looking further within signalcharacteristics, the modulation type of the drone control signal isdetermined by analyzing bandwidths, frequency spectrums and sidebands.More specifically, the modulation type of the drone control signal canbe determined via amplitude modulation, frequency modulation and phasemodulation. Looking even further, the frequency spread of the dronecontrol signal is determined in order to ascertain the particularbandwidth the drone signal is operating within. This allows for theoverride signal to stay within the bandwidth of the drone, ignoring anysignals outside the drone control signal's frequency spread.

Next, the override signal is transmitted from the transmission antennaconnected to the neutralization system towards the source direction ofthe drone control signal. As aforementioned earlier, the override signaltransmitted via the transmission antenna is replicated to match thedetected drone signal. Alternatively, it can also be a protocolsynthesized drone control signal aimed at the direction of the drone. Assuch, in one of the preferred embodiments, the override signal isconfigured to capture and direct the detected drone by controlling itsoperations, in case of signal loss or motor shut down. In other words,the override signal allows for the drone to be safely controlled andcaptured, when the override signal immediately disrupts or malfunctionsthe drone's existing drone control signal from its source. Similarly,the override signal transmitted by the transmission antenna isconfigured to suppress any existing drone control signals making itextremely cumbersome for its original operator to maintain control ofthe drone. In other words, the override signal offsets the drone controlsignal, relinquishing any and all of the drone's control from itsoriginal operator. Given this, the override signal takes over thedrone's controls including its navigation capabilities so as to resultin safe landing without any structural damages. As such, the overridesignal is configured to allow the renewed control of the drone to safelycapture and land the drone to any given preferred destination.Accordingly, a series of override signals can be transmitted withspecific protocols, continuously aimed towards the given drone, so as toensure that any missing or unaffected codes are recognized and resulted.Thus, this allows for the override signal to effectively control,capture and land the drone according to plan. Consequently, in one ofthe preferred embodiments, to further compliment in controlling thedrone, frequencies related to the drone's video links are alsocontinuously relayed back and forth aimed at the drone, in order to getreal time visual data as viewed via the drones cameras. As a result,this allows for a real-time visual with can further help in an effectivecontrol, capture and landing of the drone.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become clearer when the drawings as well as the detaileddescription are taken into consideration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present invention,reference should be had to the following detailed description taken inconnection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic representation illustrating a system of thepresent invention for detecting and defeating a drone.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method of the present invention for detectingand defeating a drone.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart directed to another method of the presentinvention for detecting and defeating a drone.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart directed to another method of the presentinvention for detecting and defeating a drone.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart directed to another method of the presentinvention for detecting and defeating a drone.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several viewsof the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

As shown in the accompanying drawings, the present invention isgenerally directed to a system and method for detecting and defeating adrone. More particularly, FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 for detectingand defeating a drone 150. The system 100 generally includes a detectionantenna array 101. The detection antenna array 101 generally is a set oftwo or more antennas and installed in various geometric arrays. In fact,in one of the preferred embodiments, the detection antenna array 101includes a set of four 90-degree sector antennas 103. So then, each ofthe sector antennas 103 further comprises an antenna gain (not shown).The antenna gain is the ratio of the power required at the input of aloss-free reference antenna to the power supplied to the input of thegiven antenna to produce, in a given direction, the same field strengthat the same distance. Given this, the antenna gain can be selected froma group of ranges in decibels (dB). The preferred ranges of the antennagain are selected based on the sector antennas' 103 ability to detectand determine a drone(s) 150 and a drone control signal(s) 151 within agiven distance. Therefore, in at least one preferred embodiment, usingeach of the sector antennas 103 of the detection antenna array 101 orother similar direction-finding array systems, the strongest signal fromthe source direction of the drone control signal 151 is detected. Assuch, each of the sector antennas 103 of the detection antenna array 101is configured to detect the most dominant signal from the sourcedirection of the drone control signal 151. Given this, the detection ofdrone control signals 151 is contingent on various factors including,but not limited to hopping intervals, frequency strengths, centerfrequencies, modulation types, frequency spreads and othernon-standardized drone control signal protocols. Likewise, the detectionof the drone control signal 151 by the sector antennas 103, includingthe antenna gain selected, can further depend on many factors, includingnoise interferences, environmental factors, weather conditions anddirectional preferences. Exemplifying this point even further, it isequally important to note that in the detection process of the dronecontrol signal 151, the distance from the drone 150, the pattern of theantenna arrays and the number of arrays of the sector antennas 103 canbe factored in as well. Accordingly, in at least one preferredembodiment, the antenna gain can be selected from the range of between10 decibels (dB) to 20 decibels (dB). Alternatively, in one of the otherpreferred embodiments, the antenna gain can also be approximately 15decibels (dB). Therefore, depending on the location of the drone andtype of antenna used in detecting drone control signals 151, the antennagain can be selected from a range of decibels or an approximate decibelas demonstrated above.

Looking further in one of the other preferred embodiments, it will beappreciated by those skilled in the art that the detection antenna array101 is structured and configured to detect a drone 150 and a dronecontrol signal 151 over a 360-degree field, in relation to the detectionantenna array 101. In other words, the detection antenna array 101 hasomnidirectional detection capabilities relative to itself. This isespecially significant, given the multi-directional drone 150 and dronecontrol signal 151 detection environment. Alternatively, in at least onepreferred embodiment, the detection antenna array 101 is configured as adirectional antenna. As such the detection antenna array 101 is thisembodiment is structured to function more effectively in receiving dronecontrol signals 151 in some directions than in others. Morespecifically, the detection antenna array 101, when functioning as adirectional antenna, will ordinarily exhibit unidirectional properties.In other words, the maximum antenna gain (increase in efficiency) inthis preferred embodiment occurs in a single direction.

Similarly, in other preferred embodiments, the detection antenna array101 can be adjusted based on factors including, but not limited toheight, number, positioning and topology of the operating environment,sufficient to maximize its detection capabilities. Accordingly, thedetection antenna array 101 is structured and configured to detect thedirectionality of the drone 150. More specifically, the detectionantenna array 101 is structured and configured to detect a drone controlsignal 151 transmitted by a drone control source 152, and thedirectionality or location of the drone 150 relative to the detectionantenna array 101. To exemplify this, the detection antenna array 101 isconfigured to detect a drone 150 within the vicinity of its detectionradius 160. So then, the detection radius 160 of the detection antennaarray 101 can be expansive, but in an alternate embodiment, it can alsobe restrictive, depending on the preference, purpose and focus of thedrone detection. Knowing this, the dimensions of the detection radius160 can vary depending on many factors—preference of detection, locationof the detection antenna array 101 and the distance of the drone 150 andthe drone control signal 151.

Looking further, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatthe detection antenna array 101 can be configured to detect a wide rangeand types of frequency signals. Some of the frequency bands can include,but is not limited to Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) bands. Assuch, the detection antenna array 101 can be configured to detect ISMbands anywhere from ultra-low 900 Megahertz (MHz) to the new extremelyhigh 60 Gigahertz GHz. Accordingly, in at least one preferredembodiment, the detection antenna array 101 is configured to detect the2.4 GHz ISM band. The 2.4 GHz ISM band is known to be the dominant bandfor more known remote control signals. As such, having the configurationin this dominant frequency allows the detection antenna array's 101 todetect the strongest available drone control signals 151. Alternatively,however, the detection antenna array 101 is configured to detect otherdominant bands in other frequency ranges. Therefore, the selection of aspecific frequency standard can depend on many factors, including theintended use, distance, and direction and type of drone 150 and thedrone control signal 151.

Next, referring specifically to FIG. 1 as an illustration, the system100 includes a neutralization system 110. The neutralization system 110is structured and configured in a communicating relation with saiddetection antenna array 101. As such, the neutralization system 110communicates with the detection antenna array 110 in order to receiveany and all drone 150 and drone control signal 151 related data detectedby the detection antenna array 110. So then, upon detection, the data iscommunicated with the neutralization system 110 and then forwarded tothe processing device 111 to be further analyzed. This analysis of thedrone control signal 151 detected by the detection antenna array 110 maybe helpful. This is because the analysis of the drone control signal 151allows the processing device 110 to ascertain the relevant frequencyprotocols, frequency bandwidths, frequency formats, center frequenciesand modulation types. Furthermore, the thorough analysis of the detecteddrone control signal 151 by the processing device 111 contributes increating an identical override signal 116. Accordingly, the overridesignal 116 is created, and then consequently aimed in the direction ofthe drone 150. Therefore, all things considered, in one of the preferredembodiments, the neutralization system 110 comprises a processing device111, an amplifier 114, and a transmission antenna 115. As such, each ofthe aforementioned will be explained in greater detail below.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the processing device 111 is configured tocreate and effect the transmission of the override signal 116 based onthe detection of the drone control signal 151. As such, the processingdevice 111 comprises at least one computer, including at least oneprocessor and memory, structured and configured to perform theoperations described within this application. Additionally, theprocessing device 111 further comprises executable and/or interpretablecomputer code, or software, that allows for the execution of outputcontrols based on select input signals. The executable and/orinterpretable programming languages extend to all those known to oneskilled in the art, including but not limited to C, C++, C#, Ruby, Java,Dart, Rust, Swift, PHP, Perl, HTML, XHTML, and other equivalentlanguages and past, present and future variations. The processing device111 may house a library of known radio frequency spectrums, headers, andcontrol signals within an attached or embedded storage, such thatvarious control signals may be automatically selected depending on adetected radio frequency signal. The processing device 111 may of coursealso allow for direct user input. As such, any new control signals thatare not recognized can be added to the library of the processing device111.

Furthermore, in at least one of the preferred embodiments, theprocessing device 111 may be implemented as an application server incommunication with a network, such as to allow for remote access by auser via a mobile or remote device. The network may comprise theInternet in a preferred embodiment, but may also comprise any other LAN,WAN, wireless or partially wired networks. Accordingly, additionalcommunication hardware may be installed on the processing device 111 toallow for communication over a network. Additional software components,such as server software for application(s), website(s), various networkservice(s), and respective databases may also be installed on theprocessing device 111. The application server is configured withexecutable and/or interpretable computer code that allows it to performthe methods and processes described within this application, includingthe processing, analysis, and/or visualization of signal data for userinterpretation. The application server may implement the methodology ofusing software methods described above, in conjunction with any numberof solution stacks that allow the processing, analysis, and/orvisualization of signal data to be executed remotely. These solutionstacks may include, without limitation, ZEND Server, APACHE Server,NODE.JS, ASP, PHP, Ruby, XAMPP, LAMP, WAMP, MAMP, WISA, and others knownto those skilled in the art. In such a preferred embodiment, theapplication server may also comprise or be communicably connected to adatabase, the database may comprise a SQL database or a text database,and may house any recorded signal data and the library of known dronefrequency bands and control signals as described above.

Referring again to FIG. 1, in one of preferred embodiments, theprocessing device 111 further comprises a software defined radio (SDR)113 configured to replicate the drone control signal 151. The SDR 113can comprise a wide variety of radio communication systems havingcomponents implemented by means of software, preferably on a computerlike device or any other known embedded system. Given this, the SDR canwirelessly transmit and receive signals pertaining to drones 150 anddrone control signals 151 in the radio frequency part of theelectromagnetic spectrum, which further helps to facilitate a precisetransfer of drone control signal related information. Furthermore, SDR113 can comprise a collection of hardware and software technologies,where some or all of the SDR 113 operating functions can be implementedthrough modifiable software or firmware operating on programmableprocessing technologies. Accordingly, in one of the preferredembodiments, SDR 113 comprises a software defined radio and appropriatehardware components for effectively executing the SDR 113. The hardwarecomponents comprise embedded systems that are capable of performing theequivalent functions of hardware radio components, including but notlimited to mixers, filters, amplifiers, modulators/demodulators,detects, converts, and other appropriate components. SDR 113 can includethe use of an embedded general purpose or specialized computer such asprocessing device 111, or microcontroller, receiver(s), transmitter(s),antenna(s). Moreover, SDR may further comprise commercially availableSDRs, SDR receivers, prebuilt SDRs, or SDR receiver kits mounted ontothe UAV 200, such as SDRstick, ADAT, Apache Labs, SunSDR, Myriad-RF,FLEX, USRP, SoftRock, and others known to those skilled in the art.

Furthermore, referring again to FIG. 1, in one of the preferredembodiments, the amplifier 114 of the neutralization system 110 isstructured to boost the gain of the override signal 116 to exceed thesignal strength of the drone control signal 151. As such, the boost ofthe override signal 116 due to the amplifier 114 can be computed as theratio of the power of the outputted override signal 116 compared to theinputted drone control signal 151. This means that the amplifier 114generally has a gain value in its output override signal 116 that isstronger in decibels compared to the inputted drone control signal 151.Given this, the amplifier 114 receives the inputted drone control signal151 in a readable format, adds energy to it, outputting the overridesignal 116, which is generally greater than or equal to in signalstrength to the inputted drone control signal 151. As such, in at leastone preferred embodiment, the override signal 116 can include an exactreplication of the drone control signal 151. More specifically, theoverride signal 116 can be configured to precisely mimic the dronecontrol signal 151 in terms of, but not limited to its frequencies,hopping intervals, center frequencies, modulation types and other knownprotocols, and consequently override it. Overriding allows the system100 to render the control of the drone 150 from its original operator atleast partially and/or totally inoperative. As such, the override signal116 is not limited. It includes data that can enable renewed control ofthe drone 150, sufficient enough for the drone 150 to be manipulated tonot only disconnect from its original operator, but to also override theold drone control signal 151 with new control commands. As such, theoverride signal 116 is configured to allow the drone 150 to accept newcontrol commands, sufficient for the drone 150 to be disconnectedcommunicably from its original operator safely captured therein. Giventhis, the override signal 116 is configured to contain new controlsignal data information that not only disengages the drone 150 from itsoriginal operator, but also permits renewed control of the drone 150sufficient to safely capture it. Additionally, the override signal 116is configured to have a signal strength of greater frequency than thestrongest allowable drone control signal 151.

Furthermore, the override signal 116 can comprise a header of the dronecontrol signal (not shown). As such, the header of the drone controlsignal can refer to the supplemental data that is placed at thebeginning of a block data in the override signal 116 being transmitted.As such the header of the drone signal may contain information includingbut not limited to the source, destination and control information.Alternatively, the header data can also be transparent about thetransmission details. Given all this, in one of the preferredembodiments, the header of the drone control signal is transmitted inthe override signal 116 as an initial set of bits to preliminarydescribe as to what the drone 150 can expect to receive throughout theoverride signal 116 data stream, including but not limited to thelength, size, characteristics and amount of data, and other transmissionunits logically or physically associated to overriding the drone controlsignal 151. Additionally, in one of the preferred embodiments, theoverride signal comprises an injected code (not shown). As such, theinjected code in the override signal aims to gain control of all or partof the drone 150. The injected code can be made through the interface ofthe SDR. As such, the injection of the replicated or spurious code,depending on the extent, format, and content of the code, can compromiseproper operating functions of the drone 150 from its original operatoror even allow for a complete takeover of it. This means that theinjected code can have precise details on controlling the drone 150 aswell as engaging it with new commands sufficient to validate a safecapture of the drone 150 without any potential physical damage. Evenfurther, in one of the other preferred embodiments, the override signal116 comprises random noise. Random noise can function to be an error orundesired random disturbance in the drone control signal 1151 pertainingto the drone's 150 communication channel with the original operator. Assuch, random noise can be a summation of unwanted or disturbing energythat interferes in the communication channel of the drone control signal151 and the original operator. So, given all this, when the transmissionantenna 115 transmits the override signal 116 towards the direction ofthe detected drone 150, it can comprise the header, the injected controlcode and the random noise individually or collectively, at leastsufficient to interfere, cease, and take control of the communicationchannel between the drone 150 and the original operator.

Furthermore, the amplifier 114 as illustrated in FIG. 1, considerablyincreases the optimal range of the override signal 116 by reducing anyintermodulation of other signals and/or signal related data. Forinstance, the amplifier 114 allows the override signal 116 to maintain apurest path from the transmission antenna 115 towards the drone 150, soas to retain the required signal strength necessary to override thedrone control signal 151. As such, the amplifier 114 maintains a strongoverride signal 116 throughout the signal transmission process in thedirection of the drone 150. Merely as an example, the amplifier 114increases transmission lengths, permitting the override signal 116 toreach drones 150 at far greater ranges, without risking any decrease indrone control capabilities. Thus, the amplifier 114 can improve theoverall drone control distance and contribute towards robust signalstability. Similarly, the amplifier 114 is structured and configured toincrease the sensitivity of the transmission antenna 115, when theoverride signal 116 is transmitted towards the identified drone 150.This increased sensitivity of the transmission antenna 115 makes up forany imbalance that may occur in the delivery of the override signal 116to the drone 150. Additionally, the amplifier 114 is configured toamplify oscillations within a particular frequency band, while reducingoscillations at other frequencies outside the band.

Referring again to FIG. 1, in at least one preferred embodiments, thetransmission antenna 115 is structured to transmit the override signal116 aimed at the direction of the drone 150. As such, the overridesignal 116 is configured to be transmitted at various frequenciesdepending on the received drone control signal 151. Structurallyspeaking, the transmission antenna 115 can comprise a solid metal tube,a flexible wire with an end cap or a telescoping antenna, with sectionsnesting inside each other when collapsed. Thus, in order to effectivelytransmit the override signal 116 in the direction of the drone 150, thetransmission antenna 115 is configured to convert electric energy, intotransmittable frequencies in the form of the override signal 116,preferably identical or stronger than the inputted drone control signal151. Accordingly, the transmission antenna 115 can transmit the overridesignal 116 in one direction, at least one direction, or inomni-direction, depending on the preference, distance and location ofthe drone 150. As such, the override signal 116 is configured to beidentical to and override the detected drone control signal 151 so as torender the drone's control from its original operator inoperative.Additionally, if the inputted drone control signal 151 is in a higherfrequency, the transmission antenna 115 is structured and configured toconvert the higher rate of electrical energy in a higher frequency,sufficient for the override signal 116 to gain partial or total controlof the detected drone 150. As such, the frequencies transmitted by thetransmission antenna 115 can be adjusted and configured relative to thefrequencies detected from the drone 150 and the drone control signal151.

Furthermore, FIG. 1 illustrates an alternate antenna system 170. Thealternate antenna system 170 is configured to transmit at least onepulse of 2.4 Ghz energy from the magnetron source. This may be truebecause the override signal 116 transmitted by the transmission antenna115 may not be sufficient to effectively override the drone controlsignal 151 detected. As such, it may also be true that the detecteddrone is controlled by multiple signals at higher frequencies, which mayhave rendered the initial override signal 116 aimed at the drone 150 viathe transmission antenna 115 to be ineffective. Accordingly, thealternate antenna system 170 can effectively transmit high frequencyenergy generated from the magnetron source. As such, the magnetronsource can be any high power microwave oscillator, in which thepotential energy of at least one electron cloud near the cathode isconverted into radio frequency energy. Given this, when the magnetronsource creates the energy of at least 2.4 Ghz, it is aimed andtransmitted in the direction of the drone 150 via the alternate antennasystem 170.

Consequently, the alternate antenna system 170 comprises a horn antenna.The horn antenna is configured to amplify and/or transmit at least onepulse of the 2.4 GHz generated by the magnetron source aimed preciselyin the direction of the detected drone 150. The horn antenna can bestructured as a flaring metal waveguide shaped like a horn to direct thedesired high level frequency in the form a beam in the direction of thedrone. As such, the horn antenna can be configured to transmit atvarious frequencies, but preferably at least above 300 MHz. Given this,the horn antenna is structured, dimensioned and configured to havemoderate directivity, low standing wave ratio, broad bandwidth, simpleconstruction and adjustable structure. Moreover, the horn antenna isconfigured to minimize any interruptions such as unwanted signals not inthe favored direction of the drone 150 and drone control signal 151, byeffectively suppressing them. As such, the horn antenna has no resonantelements and is configured to operate at a wide range of bandwidths.

Looking further, FIG. 2 illustrates a method associated with detectingand defeating a drone 150 according to one of the preferred embodiments.As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that instep 201, the method comprises of continuously scanning for remotecontrol signals on a detection antenna array 101 in order to detect thedrone 150 and the drone control signal 151. To continuously scan, thedetection antenna array 101 is configured to detect ISM bands or anyother related bands ranging from ultra-low 900 MHz to an extremely high60 Gigahertz GHz, including, but not limited to the preferable 2.4 GHzISM band, which is widely recognized as the dominant band for remotecontrols operating drones 150. Given this, the selection of ISM bandsstandard can depend on the direction, environment, intended use, anddistance of the drone 150 and/or drone control signal 151. Additionally,a display screen indicating the detection and direction of the drone 150and the drone signal 151 can also be associated in step 201.

Looking again at FIG. 2, in step 202, the source direction of the dronesignal 151 on the detection antenna array 101 is determined. Thedirectional determination of the drone signal 151 in step 202 can occurby directing the focus towards one particular direction in which thedrone is specifically detected or alternatively, in omni-directionallyin search of plurality of drones 150 that may exist in the given range.As such, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that thecomprehensive signal detecting capabilities of the detection antennaarray 101 allows for directional detection and omni-directionaldetection of drone signal 151 at various frequencies. Moreover, in step202, the directional antenna array 101 can be configured to measure anddetermine the frequency hopping intervals, the center frequencies, themodulation types, the frequency spreading factors, and compare any ofthe detected drone control signal(s) 151 to other standard andnon-standard drone control signal 151 protocols stored on hand on acomputer and/or a micro-controller system. Accordingly, the directionalantenna array 101 can be configured to detect and determine thecharacteristics of the detected drone control signal 151 by taking intoaccount factors including, but not limited to direction, distance,intensity quality, and external noise interferences. Accordingly, thisprecise determination by the directional antenna array 101 enables theneutralization system 110 to create an override signal 116. Morespecifically, once a drone signal 151 is detected and determined by thedetection antenna array 101, in step 203, an override signal 116 iscreated on the neutralization system 110 based on the detected dronesignal 151. Consequently, the neutralization system 110 ensures that theoverride signal 116 created is identical in its specifications to thestrongest drone signal 151 detected for a particular drone 150.

Next, in step 204 as referred to in FIG. 2, the override signal 116 istransmitted from the transmission antenna 115 connected to theneutralization system 110, towards the source direction of the dronecontrol signal 151. The override signal 116 transmitted via thetransmission antenna 115 is replicated to exact the detected dronesignal 151, or alternatively, it is protocol synthesized drone controlsignal aimed at the direction of the drone 150. The override signal 116can also be configured to guide the detected drone 150 in case of signalloss or motor shut down. More particularly, the override signal 116allows for the drone 150 to be safely controlled in the event that theoverride signal 116 disrupts the drone's 150 existing drone controlsignal 151. Additionally, the override signal 116 transmitted by thetransmission antenna 115 can be configured to suppress any existingdrone control signals 151 making it cumbersome for its original operatorto maintain control of the drone 150. Consequently, the override signal116 replaces the drone control signal 151, primarily due to itsidentical or stronger frequency as the drone control signal 151,relinquishing it from its operative capabilities, thus causing the droneto disconnect from its original operator.

Referring again to FIG. 2, step 211 includes periodically terminatingthe override signal 116 transmission from the transmission antenna 115.As such, the periodic termination of the drone override signal 116 mayoccur at various preferred intervals depending on several factorsrelated to the drone 150 and drone control signal 151 detection. Morespecifically, step 211 provides an alternative, in case the overridesignal 116 transmitted in step 204 fails to completely override thedrone control signal 151. As such, the periodic termination of theoverride signal 116 transmission helps determine, if there are anyexisting similar type of remote control signals used. Moreover, it alsohelps to prevent any confusion in determining the precise existence ofplurality of remote control signals, which may have confounded thetransmission of the override signal 116 by the transmission antenna 115.

Next, referring again to FIG. 2, in step 212, additional remote controlsignals are scanned in order to detect supplemental drone control signal153. This is because there may be other supplemental drone controlsignals 153 besides the originally detected drone control signal 151that may be contributing in the control of the detected drone 150. Also,any supplemental drone control signal 153 may also serve as a backup tothe primary drone control signal 151 in situations where the originaldrone control signal 151 may have lost communication with its operator.Accordingly, in step 213, a supplemental override signal 117 is createdon the neutralization system 110, based on the detected supplementaldrone control signal 153. The supplemental override signal 117 isconfigured to be identical or stronger in signal strength than thesupplemental drone control signal 153. This ensures that anysupplemental drone control signal 153 that is contributing secondarilyalong with the drone control signal 151 or as a backup in the control ofthe detected drone 150 is also accounted for while defeating the drone150. Therefore, in one of the preferred embodiments as illustrated instep 214, the override signal 116 and the supplemental override signal117, both are transmitted from the transmission antenna 115 towards thedirection of the drone 150. Alternatively, in other preferredembodiments, the supplemental override signal 117 can be transmittedseparately towards the direction of the drone 150 as well.

Looking further in one of the other preferred embodiments, FIG. 3illustrates the method for detecting and defeating the drone 150according to one of the preferred embodiments. Accordingly, asaforementioned, steps 201 through 204 occur in this preferredembodiment. As such, after step 204 is completed as illustrated, in step221, once the drone 150 is detected, it is scanned for a video linkassociated with the detected drone 150. The video link formats mayinclude, but is not limited to .flv, .ogv, .drc, .mng, .avi, .wmv, .yuv,.rm, .rmvb, .asf, .webm, .mp4, .mop, .mpg, .mpeg, .nsv, .mov, .swf and.3pg. The video link may also be scanned at various frequencies.Accordingly, in the preferred embodiment, the video links associatedwith the detected drone 150, regardless of the file size, resolution andcompatibility can be scanned at any given frequency. Given this, it willbe appreciated by those skilled in the art that in one of the preferredembodiments, the video link associated with the detected drone 150 canbe scanned on the 5.8 GHz ISM band. Additionally, in at least onepreferred embodiment, the video link associated with the detected drone150 can also be scanned on a 915 MHz ISM band. As such, the ISM bandsalso allow for the video link of any aerial footage captured in realtime by the detected drone 150 to be sent back to the neutralizationsystem 110 to be recorded for display. To accomplish this, anyelectronic display equipment can be used to view the recorded footagecaptured by the drone 150. The recorded footage can be used for realtime feedback of drone 150 behavior and other telemetry data which willbe explained in greater detail below.

Looking further in one of the preferred embodiments, the video file caninclude formats containing video data in various coding formats,alongside with audio data in various audio coding formats. As such, thevideo formats can include any type of synchronization information,subtitles, and metadata associated with the video link. So, once thevideo link is scanned and detected, the video feed associated with thevideo link is recorded. Once the video is successfully recorded, in step223, an alternate video feed signal to the drone 150 is periodicallyinjected, in order to interfere with the piloting of the drone 150. Morespecifically, real time feedback of drone behavior and other relatedtelemetry data, including but not limited to GPS positions, batteryvoltage, images of drone operation and precise location of its operatoris recorded. Once recorded, the image data is readily analyzed to beused as a vantage point to determine how the control of the drone 150will be precisely negotiated. As such, in one of the preferredembodiments, an alternate video feed signal to the drone 150 isperiodically injected in order to confuse, interfere and incapacitatethe piloting of the drone from its original operator. More particularly,the alternate video feed signal periodically injected in step 223, canbe configured to repeat the video footage already recorded by the dronein a repeated, looped time frame format, so as to trick its operator inbelieving that he/she still has control of the drone and temporarilyavoid any suspicion of hostile takeover of controls of the drone 150.

Looking further, FIG. 4 explains the method for detecting and defeatingthe drone 150 according to at least one preferred embodiment.Accordingly, in this preferred embodiment, steps 201 through 204 arecompleted as aforementioned earlier. Given this, after step 204, in step231, the detection antenna array 101 detects the effect of the overridesignal 116 transmitted from the transmission antenna 115 on the drone150. More specifically, the detection antenna array 101 detects whetherthe override signal 116 transmitted in the direction of the drone 150 iseffectively able to override the drone control signal 151, so as torender the drone 150 uncontrollable from its original operator. As such,in one of the preferred embodiments, if the effect of the overridesignal 116 is operative on the drone 150, then measures pertaining tototal control and capture of the drone 150 can be proceeded, and noother alternate signals of higher frequency may be transmitted. However,if the effect of the override signal 116 is inoperative on the drone150, then in one of the preferred embodiments, stronger frequency basedoverride signals 116 may be transmitted. More particularly, once theoverride signal 116 is detected to be inoperative in terms of overridingthe existing drone control signal 151 in terms of effectuating partialor total control of the drone 150, then step 232 as described in greaterdetail below will be commenced.

Accordingly, referring to FIG. 4 again, in step 232, if no discernibleeffect can be detected, at least one pulse of 2.4 GHz energy from amagnetron source (not shown) through an alternate antenna system 170 istransmitted. This is because some of the remote control signals canoperate at a frequency of 2.4 GHz, the same frequency standard at whichmost Wi-Fi standards 802.11g, 802.11n, IEEE 802.15.4 based wireless datanetworks, and Bluetooth devices operate on nowadays. Given this, the 2.4GHz pulse of energy is transmitted via the alternate antenna system 170aimed in the direction of the drone 150. As such, the alternate antennasystem 170 can comprise a horn antenna. The horn antenna is configuredto receive at least one pulse of 2.4 GHz energy from a magnetron source.Furthermore, the horn antenna, which has a far field pattern, is alsoconfigured to transmit this energy in a beamed format aimed towards thedrone 150. Given this, the horn antenna of the alternate antenna system160 can provide a higher power handling and lower insertion losstransition for the 2.4 GHz energy coupled out of the magnetron source.The magnetron source offers high energy conversion efficiency and can beconfigured to reduce the risk of interference by shifting the magnetronsource's resonant frequency in a more desirable frequency spectrumconducive to conditions for drone control. Given all of this, if noapparent effect is detected when the initial override signal 116 in step231 is transmitted, the horn antenna of the alternate antenna system 170transmits at least one pulse of 2.4 GHz energy aimed towards orapproximately near the drone 150, sufficient to gain control of thedrone 150. Alternatively, in one of the preferred embodiments, at leastone pulse of 2.4 Gigahertz GHz energy from a magnetron source can alsobe transmitted via the horn antenna of the alternate antenna system 170in situations where alternate, manipulated video feed signals arerequired to be injected periodically in the 2.4 GHz frequency rangetowards the drone so as to confuse its operator and make operation ofthe drone cumbersome.

Looking further, FIG. 5 illustrates at least one of the preferredembodiments, in which steps 201 and 202 are completed as aforementionedearlier. Accordingly, in step 241, the signal characteristics of thedrone control signal 151 are determined. More specifically, the signalcharacteristics may comprise determining the frequency hopping intervalof the drone control signal 151, determining the center frequency of thedrone control signal 151, determining the modulation type of the dronecontrol signal 151 and determining the frequency spread of the dronecontrol signal 151.

Accordingly, once the drone control signal is detected by the detectionantenna array 10, in step 241, the processing device 111 receives thedata and determines the characteristics of the drone control signal 151,including but not limited to at least one factor such as frequencylevels, center frequencies, modulation types, and frequency spreadingfactors. After making a precise determination, the drone control signal150 characteristics are then compared against to the various data storedin the processing device 111. More specifically, as illustrated in step242, the signal characteristics of the drone control signal 151 arecompared with a library stored on the processing device 111 in order todetermine a match. The library saved on the processing device 111 ishighly comprehensive and can comprise a wide spectrum of frequenciesdata including, but not limited to ultra-low 900 MHz to the newextremely high 60 GHz. The library may also contain other relevantinformation on various standard and non-standard center frequencies,bandwidths, modulations and other remote control signal protocols.Essentially, the library stored on the processing device 111 comprisesall the relevant information, sufficient to determine a precisecounterpart, so that an identically matched override signal 116 can becreated in the system 100. Given this, and referring to FIG. 5 again, instep 243, an override signal 116 is selected. The selected signal 116 isclosely associated, if not identical, to the signal characteristics ofthe detected drone control signal 151. As such, the signalcharacteristics may comprise determining the frequency hopping intervalof the drone control signal 151, determining the center frequency of thedrone control signal 151, determining the modulation type of the dronecontrol signal 151 and determining the frequency spread of the dronecontrol signal 151. Given this, the override signal 116 is preciselyselected based on its closely matched signal characteristics to thedrone control signal 151, accomplished by thoroughly comparing andanalyzing against all the relevant signal based data stored in thelibrary of the processing device 111 on the neutralization system 110.

Accordingly and referring to FIG. 5 yet again, in step 204, the overridesignal 116 is transmitted from the transmission antenna 115 connected tothe neutralization system 110 towards the source direction of the dronecontrol signal 151. As aforementioned earlier, the override signal 116transmitted via the transmission antenna 115 is replicated to match thedetected drone signal 151, or alternatively, it is protocol synthesizeddrone control signal aimed at the direction of the drone 150. Giventhis, in one of the preferred embodiments, the override signal 116 isconfigured to guide the detected drone 150 in case of signal loss ormotor shut down. More particularly, the override signal 116 allows forthe drone 150 to be safely controlled in the event that the overridesignal 116 disrupts the drone's 150 existing drone control signal 151.Additionally, the override signal 116 transmitted by the transmissionantenna 115 can be configured to suppress any existing drone controlsignals 151 making it extremely cumbersome for its original operator tomaintain control of the drone 150. As such, the override signal 116 intime overpowers the drone control signal 151, thus relinquishing any andall control from its original operator by rendering it inoperable.Furthermore, the override signal 116 is configured to allow the renewedcontrol of the drone 150 to safely capture and land the drone 150. Thismeans that the override signal 116 ensures that the new control of thedrone 150 does not physically damage the drone 150. As such, a series ofoverride signals 116 can be continuously sent aimed at the drone 150, sothat a successful capture and landing of the drone 150 is resulted.Furthermore, to supplement this successful capture, frequencies relatedto the drone's video links are also continuously relayed back and forthin order get the visual data sufficient to view real time capture andlanding of the drone 150.

Any of the above methods may be completed in sequential order in atleast one preferred embodiment, though they may be completed in anyother order in other preferred embodiments. In at least one of thepreferred embodiments, the above methods may be exclusively performed,but in other preferred embodiments, one or more steps of the methods asdescribed may be skipped.

Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be madeto the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intendedthat all matters in the foregoing description and shown in theaccompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in alimiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined bythe appended claims and their legal equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for detecting and defeating a dronecomprising: continuously scanning for remote control signals on adetection antenna array in order to detect a drone and a drone controlsignal, determining the source direction of the drone on the detectionantenna array, creating an override signal on a neutralization system,based on the detected drone control signal, transmitting the overridesignal from a transmission antenna connected to the neutralizationsystem towards the direction of the drone, scanning for a video linkassociated with the detected drone, and recording a video feed upondetection of an associated video link.
 2. The method as recited in claim1 further comprising: periodically terminating the override signaltransmission from the transmission antenna, rescanning for additionalremote control signals in order to detect a supplemental drone controlsignal, creating a supplemental override signal on the neutralizationsystem, based on the detected supplemental drone control signal, andtransmitting both the override signal and the supplemental overridesignal from the transmission antenna towards the direction of the drone.3. The method as recited in claim 1 further comprising scanning for thevideo link associated with the detected drone on the 5.8 GHz ISM band.4. The method as recited in claim 1 further comprising scanning for thevideo link associated with the detected drone on the 915 MHz ISM band.5. The method as recited in claim 1 further comprising periodicallyinjecting an alternative video feed signal to the drone in order tointerfere with the piloting of the drone.
 6. A method for detecting anddefeating a drone comprising: continuously scanning for remote controlsignals on a detection antenna array in order to detect a drone and adrone control signal, determining a source direction of the drone on thedetection antenna array, determining signal characteristics of the dronecontrol signal, comparing the signal characteristics of the dronecontrol signal with a library stored on a neutralization system in orderto determine a match, selecting an override signal associated with thesignal characteristics of the drone control signal, upon finding a matchon the neutralization system, and transmitting the override signal froma transmission antenna connected to the neutralization system towardsthe direction of the drone.
 7. The method as recited in claim 6 whereinthe signal characteristics comprise determining a frequency hoppinginterval of the drone control signal.
 8. The method as recited in claim6 wherein the signal characteristics comprise determining a centerfrequency of the drone control signal.
 9. The method as recited in claim6 wherein the signal characteristics comprise determining the modulationtype of the drone control signal.
 10. The method as recited in claim 6wherein a signal characteristics comprise determining a frequency spreadof the drone control signal.
 11. A method for detecting and defeating adrone comprising: continuously scanning for remote control signals on adetection antenna array in order to detect a drone and a drone controlsignal, determining the source direction of the drone on the detectionantenna array, creating an override signal on a neutralization system,based on the detected drone control signal, transmitting the overridesignal from a transmission antenna connected to the neutralizationsystem towards the direction of the drone, detecting the effect of theoverride signal transmitted from the transmission antenna via thedetection antenna array, and transmitting at least one pulse of 2.4 GHzenergy from a magnetron source through an alternate antenna system, ifno discernible effect can be detected.
 12. The method as recited inclaim 11 wherein the alternate antenna system comprises a horn antenna.